Miranda Prendergast-Miller

Northumbria University, in collaboration with the British Antarctic Survey, is offering an exciting PhD research opportunity focused on the prevalence of textile microfibres in Antarctica. The project, titled "Prevalence of textile microfibres in Antarctica: exploring the circularity and carbon footprint of textiles in polar fieldwork," aims to investigate the environmental impact of textiles used in polar research, with a particular emphasis on microfibre pollution, circularity, and the carbon footprint associated with fieldwork in extreme environments. This PhD is part of the NERC Net Zero Polar Science Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP), which supports research aligned with achieving net zero goals in polar science. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Dr Alana James Kelly Sheridan at Northumbria University and Clara Manno at the British Antarctic Survey, gaining access to world-class research facilities and expertise in environmental science, polar research, and sustainability. Key research areas include environmental science, textile microfibres, carbon footprint analysis, circularity in material use, and the unique challenges of conducting fieldwork in Antarctica. The project is ideal for candidates interested in environmental sustainability, pollution monitoring, and the intersection of materials science and ecology in polar regions. Funding is provided through the NERC DTP, which typically covers tuition fees and provides a stipend for living expenses. Applicants are encouraged to review the full project details and eligibility criteria at the provided link and to submit their applications by the deadline of 7 January 2026.